As children, many of us have dreams that seem larger than life, but for P.J. Washington, those dreams didn’t just stay pinned to the wall of his childhood room—they became his reality. Today, as a key player for the Dallas Mavericks, Washington has checked off every goal from his cherished childhood checklist.
It was in the heart of his formative years that young P.J. Washington crafted a list that would chart the course of his future. The list was simple, yet ambitious, containing five key milestones:
1. Become a McDonald’s All-American
2. Sign with the University of Kentucky
3. Play for USA Basketball
4. Be an NBA lottery pick
5. Play for the Dallas Mavericks
Washington’s journey began with his selection as a McDonald’s All-American, a prestigious honor recognizing the best high school basketball players in the nation. His talent and hard work then led him to the University of Kentucky, a powerhouse in college basketball, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of Coach John Calipari.
His performances caught the eyes of USA Basketball, and soon, he donned the colors of his country, representing the United States on the international stage. The NBA took notice, and in the 2019 NBA Draft, Washington’s name was called as a lottery pick.
But it was the final goal on that list that held a special place in Washington’s heart—playing for the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks, with their storied history and passionate fanbase, represented the pinnacle of his basketball aspirations. And now, as a Maverick, Washington is living his dream life.
“I was in my room one day. And I just wrote down some things I wanted to do, stapled it to my wall, took a picture of it. It just everyday reminded me of the things I wanted to do,” Washington said.
Dreams do come true.
P.J. Washington accomplished all five goals he made for himself in middle school. pic.twitter.com/Gy2w4xWo8m
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) June 8, 2024
As the Mavericks gear up for the rest of the NBA Finals, Washington’s childhood checklist serves as a testament to the power of dreams and the relentless pursuit of turning them into achievements.
